Can I deload and do hard(er) slab at the same time?

Currently deloading, will it affect it if I decide to do some hard slab to sharpen my footwork? I understand that the deloading week should be light climbing only, but does that apply to slab?

The idea of a deload isn't necessarily light climbing only. It's more about reducing the overall training load. There are different philosophies of how to do this.  One option is to keep the intensity high but reduce the volume. I.e. still do hard problems, just a lot less. 

Trying some hard slabs on your deload should be fine and good. Just don't do too much; keep the sessions short and maybe take some extra rest days.

It may depend on your skin, energy and mental state too. If you are really motivated to climb and your skin/achiness is in check go for it, but make yourself quit a bit early. If you don't feel like trying hard then just don't! 

The de-load week is not the time to push your comfort zone. Often times a few days break resets your motivation to try your absolute hardest when you return.

Cody Ratterman wrote:

The de-load week is not the time to push your comfort zone. Often times a few days break resets your motivation to try your absolute hardest when you return.

Thought it can be a good time to dabble in unfamiliar climbing styles. Being on a deload week can make it easier to set aside performance expectations and adopt a play mindset that is useful in learning new styles. Especially when falling off slabs several grades below your normal level.

Expanding on this, "hard" slabs might not be hard numerically (i.e. have a big V grade). Best to not worry much about the grade and instead keep the play mindset - "I wonder if I can stand on this terrible smear ..let's try it!'

Great info guys thx